Will Eastern Michigan football be a contender in the MAC in 2022?

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Dec 18, 2021; Mobile, Alabama, USA; Liberty Flames quarterback Malik Willis (7) is pressured by Eastern Michigan Eagles defensive lineman Turan Rush (99) in the first quarter during the 2021 LendingTree Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert McDuffie-USA TODAY Sports /

How much will the defense improve this fall?

The defensive side of the ball needs the most help this fall. The Eagles finished 94th in points allowed, 113th in rush defense, 82nd in pass yards allowed, and 107th in total defense. The Eastern Michigan defense did not stop anyone last season, allowing 25 or more points eight times, including 56 in the bowl game against Liberty.

For the Eagles to win that extra game or two and contend in the MAC, look no further than the defense. This year will be another 7-6 season if the defense doesn’t get any better. The good news for the Eagles is there is some solid returning experience on that side of the ball.

Jose Ramirez, the Eagles’ best defensive player, returns this season. All of their returning linemen have at least two years in the program. That said, keep an eye on incoming freshman Maliek Bogard. He could give the Eagles some snaps on obvious passing downs. Transfers Joe Sparacio and Chase Cline add talent depth to the linebackers.

The secondary might have a lot of largely unknown players, but they are an experienced bunch, likely to start all (or at least mostly) upperclassmen this fall. That group will also include JUCO transfer, Joshua Scott.

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